Through the Sci-Fi Lens: Exploring Social Media’s Influence on Body Image and Bullying Among Adolescents in Boarding Schools

This research investigates the complex relationships between social media, body image, and bullying among adolescent boarding school students, with an emphasis on the Malaysian context. Utilizing science fiction as a conceptual lens, the study presents hypothetical future scenarios to investigate how technological advancements could impact these interconnected issues. The paper seeks to provide nuanced insights into the ethical and policy implications of social media use in boarding schools by drawing on key theories such as Social Comparison Theory, Social-Ecological Model and Uses and Gratifications Theory. Through comparative analysis of hypothetical scenarios, this study aims to provide educators, policymakers, and technologists with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities at this intersection. The ultimate objective is to contribute to the ongoing discourse concerning adolescent mental health and to propose actionable strategies for mitigating negative outcomes in the unique context of Malaysian boarding schools.